Meet your bartender: Gator at Tokyo

Gator is a man of few words and many surprises. For instance, I’ve known him for well over a year by now and actually had no idea his name is William Armitage and not just legally “Gator.”

Also, to say I “know” Gator isn’t completely accurate unless you count “knowing” as “running into at a bar after having two to four dirty gin martinis,” which, as we all know, does not constitute knowing.

I also did not know he was a bartender at Tokyo but he is, in fact, a bartender at all three Tokyos, so you’re welcome, ladies.

One thing I do know is that I was enjoying some very excellent live music at Daiquiri Bayou a couple weeks back when Gator came in, grabbed the mic and sang a cover that blew me away. Was it Al Green? Maybe; I don’t really remember. Forgive my sloppy journalism but I was two daiquiris in by then, so clearly I am excused. Whatever it was, it was awesome and I would certainly clap enthusiastically for him if his vocal stylings crossed my path again.

Please enjoy the 54 words of response Gator emailed me after I sent him my standard bartender profile starter-sentences. Tip him well because this man once served a drink to Shaggy, and have you ever served a drink to the man who gave us the precious gift that is “It Wasn’t Me”? I didn’t think so.

I am Gator and I bartend at Tokyo Steakhouse and Sushi.Being a bartender at Tokyo means good times.My favorite drink to make is whiskey. I’ve served drinks to Shaggy and Tracy Byrd.My favorite thing on Tokyo’s menu is the Ami Roll.Our sake is always flowing.My patrons may not know this about me but my first name is William.The lamest pickup line I’ve ever heard is the one you are telling me.The easiest way to piss me off while I’m working is to come in hammered.The drunkest escapade I’ve witnessed … no comment.My favorite music to listen to at work is A-ha.When I’m not working, I like drinking at Thirsty’s.When I’m not working or drinking I’m drawing.The best time to find me behind the bar is Sunday and Monday at Tokyo on I-10, Tuesday and Wednesday at Tokyo on Dowlen, Thursday and Saturday at Tokyo Mid-County.